FREDERICK, Md.– A pastor from York County was among several men charged during a prostitution sting in Frederick County, Maryland earlier this week.
Authorities charged Pastor Suler D. Acosta, of City Church York, with knowingly attempt to engage in prostitution, knowingly solicit prostitution and knowingly solicit assignation.
Acosta, 42, was among several men arrested during an undercover prostitution operation that targeted prostitution arranged over the internet, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday. Investigators set up fake prostitution advertisements online and directed would-be customers to a specific location.
According to police, the seven suspects were arrested after allegedly offering an undercover police officer money in exchange for a sex act.
Those arrested Aug. 19 include Suler D. Acosta, 42, of York; Shawn M. Breckenridge, 30, of Frederick, Maryland; Carlos A. Hoyos, 36, of Frederick, Maryland; Mark A. Villanueva, 28, of Frederick, Maryland; Paulo A. Dasilva, 51, of Mt. Airy, Maryland and Kevin E. Dorsey, 44, of Frederick, Maryland, police said.
In a statement posted on City Church’s website, leaders of the church said they were both “shocked and saddened” by the allegations against Acosta. He has already been placed on administrative leave with the church following the prostitution allegations.
The church issued a statement saying, ” Our denominations’ leadership and local presbytery is engaged in helping us navigate this hardship. It brings us great sadness that the name of Jesus Christ is maligned by the sin, or allegations of misconduct, of His people. The great sacrifice Jesus made for our sins on the cross is deserving of our lives. We ask that you pray for City Church, Suler, his wife and family.”
Acosta is due back in court on October 6, according to online court documents.
